Blue Thunda may be nearing the end of her remarkable racing career but trainer John Miles believes she can clock up another win at Thursday's Dubbo meeting.
NSW’s top short course star, who has won an incredible 18 of her 21 races, jumps from box seven in a terrific Shakey Jakey @Stud Stakes (318m, race 10).
The daughter of El Grand Senor and Whinging Wrench has a terrific record at Dubbo, having won all six of her previous visits there, but has not raced since June 5 after contracting kennel cough.
Dangerous Susannah Cargo (box eight) and decent value chance Crash Connor’s are also in the strong field but Miles is confident his returning greyhound can win.
“She’s back in full fitness and been trialing well,” he said. “I’m hopeful she can win again.
“This is as good a field as you would get anywhere but I’m confident she can put up a good show.
“The greyhound in box eight is very good. If she crosses first then she will be tough to beat, but if she doesn’t do it in the first few paces then Blue Thunda should be fine.
“I think she’s won from every box in her time so this draw won’t hurt her.”
Blue Thunda has been almost unbeatable since debuting at Unibet Gardens in March last year.
She has never raced further than 400m but has enjoyed a super career, going within 0.03 of the 280m track record at Wentworth Park on her last start.
Click here to watch a replay of that run.
Blue Thunda has a race best of 18.08 for the 318m at Dubbo and has only finished outside the top three once in her terrific career.
Miles said her will likely retire the greyhound when she next comes on season.
“It will be sad but she’s been wonderful for me,” the Central Coast trainer said.
“I think the 500 metres would have taken the edge off her. She wouldn’t have been the same greyhound (over that distance).
“Even though she has been coming home in front, her last sectional times have been not outstanding.
"Hopefully she can get a few more wins yet."
My Boy Cargo and Thor’s Devil should both be too strong for the rest in races four and five respectively.
Irinka Millie is better than her last two starts at Wentworth Park suggests and should be suited to get the win in race six.
For Dubbo Thursday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
